Disney Cruises aren’t just for the little ones! Sure, they’ve got loads of fun stuff for kids, like meeting their favourite characters, themed parties, and kids’ clubs. But don’t worry, there’s heaps for adults too.
Here’s our guide to everything you need to know about Disney Cruise Line for mum, dad and the kids, even grandma and pops!
What Makes Disney Cruises So Unique?
Disney Cruises have a few things that really set them apart, especially for families:
Meet the Characters: Your kids can hang out with their favourite Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, and even the Frozen crew all around the ship.
Themed Meals: Dining here isn’t just about food. You get to eat in restaurants where the walls change and characters join in. Animator’s Palate and Rapunzel’s Royal Table are big hits.
Awesome Shows: Think Broadway, but Disney style. They’ve got live performances of classics like Beauty and the Beast and Frozen that everyone will love.
Rotational Dining: You’ll switch between different restaurants each night, but your waitstaff comes with you. It’s like having a personal dining team.
Kids’ Clubs: There are special spaces for kids of all ages, from little ones in the Oceaneer Club to teens hanging out at Edge and Vibe, all packed with fun activities.
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Pros and Cons of a Disney Cruise
Here’s a quick look at the benefits and potential drawbacks of choosing a Disney Cruise.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Perfect for families with kids of all ages. | Higher Cost: Disney Cruises are generally more expensive compared to other lines. |
| Top-Notch Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, character meet-and-greets, and unique deck parties. | Less Adult-Focused Entertainment: While there are adult-only areas, the overall vibe is very family-centric. |
| Outstanding Service: Disney is known for exceptional service, and their cruises are no different. | Limited Itinerary Options: Disney Cruise Line has fewer itineraries compared to other major cruise lines. |
| Rotational Dining: Experience different themed restaurants with the same waitstaff each night. | Speciality Dining and Extras: Dining at speciality restaurants and other extras can add up quickly. |
| Kids’ Clubs and Activities: Free access to age-appropriate clubs and activities for kids and teens. | Limited Onboard Casino: No casino on board, which might be a downside for some adults. |
| Fireworks at Sea: Disney is the only cruise line that offers this spectacular feature. | Crowded Pools and Popular Areas: Some areas can get crowded, especially on sea days. |
What's Included in the Fare on a Disney Cruise?
When you book a Disney Cruise, a lot is included in the price, making it easier to manage your budget. Here’s what you can expect:
Dining and Restaurants: All your main meals are covered. This includes the rotational dining, buffets, quick-service spots, and even 24-hour room service. Speciality dining venues, like Palo and Remy, aren’t included, but the standard options are top-notch.
Drinks: Soft drinks, coffee, tea, and water are available at no extra cost at the dining rooms and self-service stations. Alcoholic drinks and speciality beverages, however, are not included.
Entertainment: Enjoy all the onboard entertainment without extra charges. This includes the Broadway-style shows, deck parties, character meet-and-greets, and first-run Disney movies in the onboard cinema.
Activities: There’s always something happening, from trivia games and craft workshops to poolside activities. Access to the fitness centre, sports activities, and kids’ clubs is also included.
Other Inclusions: Your fare also covers access to the pools, water slides, and the adult-only areas if you’re looking for some quiet time away from the kids.
What's Not Included in the Fare on a Disney Cruise
While Disney Cruises include a lot, there are some extras that aren’t covered by your basic fare. Here’s a breakdown:
Speciality Dining: Fancy a meal at upscale venues like Palo or Remy? These speciality restaurants charge an additional fee, but they offer an exceptional dining experience.
Alcoholic Drinks: While soft drinks are free in dining rooms and at self-service stations, alcoholic beverages, speciality coffees, and bottled water come at an extra cost. Disney offers drink packages if you plan to indulge.
Spa Treatments: Pamper yourself at the Senses Spa & Salon, but remember that spa services, including massages, facials, and salon treatments, are not included.
Fitness Classes and Gym: Basic access to the gym is free, but specialised fitness classes like yoga, pilates, or spinning typically come with a fee.
Wi-Fi Packages: Internet access isn’t free on Disney Cruises. You’ll need to purchase a Wi-Fi package if you want to stay connected during your trip.
Shore Excursions: Excursions at ports of call, including activities on Disney’s private island Castaway Cay, are extra. These can range from snorkelling trips to guided tours.
Tips and Gratuities: Gratuities for your stateroom host, dining room servers, and other service staff aren’t included in your fare. Disney suggests a daily rate, but you can adjust this based on the service.
Babysitting Services: While the kids’ clubs are free, the “it’s a small world” nursery for children under three years old is available at an additional cost.
Laundry and Dry Cleaning: Need to freshen up your wardrobe? Self-service laundry rooms are available, but they’re not free. Dry cleaning and pressing services also come with a fee.
Medical Services: If you require medical attention during your cruise, onboard medical services are available but are not included in your fare. Travel insurance is recommended to cover any unexpected expenses.
Photographs: Disney’s photographers capture all those special moments, but purchasing photos and photo packages will cost extra.
Onboard Shopping: While there’s plenty of Disney merchandise to tempt you, shopping in the onboard boutiques isn’t included.
Casino: Disney Cruise Line doesn’t have a casino.
Transfers: Transportation to and from the cruise port isn’t included unless you book it as an add-on through Disney.
Travel Insurance: It’s wise to purchase travel insurance, but it’s not included in the fare.
🛳️ Cruise Tip: BYO Beer or Wine
You can bring up to two bottles of wine (750 ml each) or six beers (12 ounces each) per adult on a Disney Cruise. Just make sure you pack them in your carry-on bag when you board. If you want to enjoy your wine in the dining room, there’s a corkage fee, but you can drink it in your stateroom without any extra charges.
Disney Cruise Line ships:
| Ship Name | Passengers (Approx.) | Year Built | Year Renovated | Highlights | Wi-Fi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disney Magic | 2,700 | 1998 | 2013, 2018 | First Disney ship; themed restaurants like Animator’s Palate; Broadway-style shows; AquaDunk slide; Marvel and Frozen experiences. | Wi-Fi available for a fee |
| Disney Wonder | 2,700 | 1999 | 2016 | Known for Tiana’s Place restaurant; Frozen, A Musical Spectacular; Pixar Day at Sea; classic Art Deco design. | Wi-Fi available for a fee |
| Disney Dream | 4,000 | 2011 | 2015 | AquaDuck water coaster; Remy fine dining; Beauty and the Beast live show; Star Wars Millennium Falcon in kids’ club. | Wi-Fi available for a fee |
| Disney Fantasy | 4,000 | 2012 | 2017 | Star Wars Day at Sea; Aladdin live show; AquaDuck water coaster; Animator’s Palate with interactive dining experiences. | Wi-Fi available for a fee |
| Disney Wish | 4,000 | 2022 | N/A | AquaMouse water attraction; Frozen dining adventure; Marvel Super Hero Academy; Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge; Disney’s first-ever staterooms with king beds. | Wi-Fi available for a fee |
| Disney Treasure | 4,000 | 2024 | N/A | Inspired by adventure-themed Disney stories; includes the AquaMouse water attraction and immersive dining experiences. | Wi-Fi available for a fee |
| Disney Adventure | 4,000 | 2025 | N/A | Scheduled for 2025; specific details are still forthcoming, but expected to feature the latest in Disney Cruise Line innovations. | Wi-Fi available for a fee |
A Brief History of Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line started in 1996 with a mission to bring Disney’s signature magic to the cruise industry. Here’s a look at the key milestones in its history:
1995: Disney announced plans to enter the cruise market, aiming to create a unique, family-oriented experience at sea.
1998: The first ship, Disney Magic, set sail, introducing innovations like rotational dining and immersive entertainment tailored for families.
1999: Disney Wonder followed, featuring its own special touches and itineraries, further solidifying Disney’s place in the cruise industry.
2011: The fleet expanded with the Disney Dream, bringing new attractions like the AquaDuck, the first water coaster at sea, and larger, more modern entertainment venues.
2012: The Disney Fantasy launched, offering longer Caribbean cruises and unique onboard experiences like the interactive Midship Detective Agency game.
2022: Disney Wish debuted as the first in a new class of ships, featuring advanced technology, innovative dining experiences like Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, and even more immersive Disney storytelling.
2024: The Disney Treasure has new dining, entertainment, and adventure options, continuing Disney’s legacy of innovation at sea.
2025: The newest ship, Disney Adventure, will join the fleet. While details are still emerging, it’s expected to introduce exciting new features, expanding the Disney Cruise Line experience even further.
Types of Cruises Offered by Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruises have something for everyone, whether you’re travelling with the whole family, as a couple, or even on your own. Here’s a quick look at the different types of cruises you can choose:
Family Cruises
Disney is all about families, and their cruises are packed with fun for all ages. Kids will love the character meet-and-greets, the cool kids’ clubs, and the amazing shows. Meanwhile, parents can kick back in adult-only areas like the Quiet Cove Pool or enjoy a nice dinner at Palo or Remy.
Adults-Only
Even though Disney is known for family fun, they’ve got plenty for adults, too. You’ll find adult-only spaces like lounges, bars, and pools where you can relax without the kids. Want a quiet dinner? Head to Palo or Remy for an elegant, kid-free meal. Plus, there’s adult-focused entertainment, live music, and themed nights to enjoy.
Solo Cruises
Travelling solo? Whether you’re a Disney fan enjoying some “me time” or just prefer travelling alone, there’s plenty to do. You can join group activities, chill out in adult-only areas, or get into all the entertainment without worrying about a schedule.
Medical Facilities
Each Disney ship has a medical centre with doctors and nurses who can help if you’re not feeling well or have an emergency. If you need to visit, just keep in mind that it’ll cost extra since it’s not included in your cruise fare. Having travel insurance is a good idea to cover any unexpected medical bills.
Dress Code
The dress code on a Disney Cruise is pretty casual:
- Casual: During the day, anything goes—shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and flip-flops are all fine.
- Cruise Casual: For dinner in the main restaurants, they ask for “cruise casual,” so think nicer than beachwear – maybe slacks and a shirt for men, and a dress or trousers for women. No swimsuits or tank tops, though.
- Formal Nights: Some cruises have a formal night or two, where you can go all out if you want. Suits, dresses, or anything a bit fancier is great.
- Themed Nights: Disney loves a theme! Pirate Night is a big one, and you can join in by dressing up in your best pirate gear.
Gratuities & Tipping
Tips for the crew who take care of you aren’t included in your fare. Disney suggests a daily tip amount that covers your stateroom host and dining staff. You can pay these in advance or at the end of the cruise. If someone really goes above and beyond, you can always tip them a little extra.
Things to Do & Entertainment
There’s always something happening on a Disney Cruise. Here’s the scoop on all the fun you can have:
Spa and Wellness
Need some “me time”? Head to the Senses Spa & Salon for a massage, facial, or even a fresh haircut. If you just want to relax, the adult-only Quiet Cove Pool is the perfect spot.
Gym, Fitness, and Sports
Keep up with your workout routine in the ship’s gym—it’s got all the equipment you need. They also have fitness classes like yoga and pilates, though some might cost extra. Plus, there are sports courts for a quick game of basketball or a round of mini-golf.
Music and Dancing
Whether you’re into live jazz, piano tunes, or DJ beats, there’s music everywhere. And if you love to dance, join in on themed dance parties—Pirate Night is especially fun!
Movies and Movie Nights
Catch the latest Disney movies or old favourites at the Buena Vista Theatre. They even do outdoor movie nights under the stars on deck.
Learn Something New
Want to pick up a new skill? Disney offers cool classes like cooking demos, art workshops, and behind-the-scenes tours of the ship.
Kids and Teens Programs
The kids’ clubs are awesome:
- Oceaneer Club: For the little ones, with themed areas like Andy’s Room from Toy Story.
- Edge: A space just for tweens, with games and activities to keep them busy.
- Vibe: A teen hangout with video games, music, and their own chill deck.
Shopping and Auctions
Love Disney merch? There are plenty of shops onboard. They also hold auctions where you can bid on Disney art, memorabilia, and other cool stuff.
Special Cruises and Groups
Disney has special cruises like Marvel Day at Sea or Star Wars Day at Sea, where you can totally geek out. They also have cruises for specific groups, like Disney Vacation Club members.
Interactive Games
Join in on interactive games around the ship, like solving mysteries with the Midship Detective Agency. Some ships even have virtual reality experiences for something different.
Quiet Spots
Need a break from all the action? There’s a library on board where you can grab a book or play some board games in the game rooms.
Let us wade through the 1000’s of cruises for you!
Jo, our cruise travel agent will personally search for the right cruise for you.
Themed Events and Parties
Disney Cruises are packed with fun-themed events and parties that are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face, no matter their age!
Here are four themed events you simply can’t miss during your cruise:
- Pirate Night: Get your best pirate gear on and join in the lively deck party, complete with dazzling fireworks.
- Frozen Deck Party: Sing your heart out with characters from Frozen as you dance and party in a magical winter scene.
- Marvel Day at Sea: Dive into superhero-themed activities and snap photos with your favourite Marvel characters.
- Halloween on the High Seas: Get ready for some spooky fun with fancy-dress parties, trick-or-treating, and themed shows.
Disney Cruises features some fantastic live shows
If you’re into musicals at sea, a Disney Cruise is where it’s at. These performances are like mini Broadway shows, making your cruise even more magical. Here’s what’s on offer:
- Frozen, A Musical Spectacular: Watch Frozen come to life on stage with amazing effects and all your favourite songs.
- Beauty and the Beast: A Broadway-style adaptation of the classic movie.
- The Golden Mickeys: An awards-style show celebrating Disney characters and films.
- Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular: Enjoy the magic of Aladdin in a lively stage performance.
🛳️ Cruise Tip: Pirate Night Prep
Bring your own pirate costumes for Pirate Night to fully enjoy the themed event—it’s a big hit on Disney Cruises.
Adventure Activities on a Disney Cruise
If you’re up for some excitement, Disney Cruises have a bunch of fun activities to get your adrenaline pumping. Check out what’s in store:
AquaDuck (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy)
The AquaDuck is a water coaster that’s a must-try. It’s a super fun ride that zooms you around the ship in a clear tube, with twists, turns, and even a stretch that goes out over the ocean!
AquaDunk (Disney Magic)
Looking for something more intense? The AquaDunk starts with a heart-pounding drop when the floor suddenly disappears under you. It’s a quick, thrilling ride with a loop that extends over the ship’s edge.
Goofy’s Sports Deck (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy)
Feeling competitive? Goofy’s Sports Deck has basketball, mini-golf, and other sports. There’s also a virtual sports simulator where you can play soccer, hockey, or baseball without leaving the ship.
Midship Detective Agency (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy)
Grab a detective badge and solve mysteries with the Midship Detective Agency. This interactive game takes you around the ship to find clues and solve cases featuring Disney characters. Perfect for families and kids!
Marvel Super Hero Academy (Disney Wonder and Disney Magic)
Kids can train with their favourite superheroes at the Marvel Super Hero Academy. They’ll learn to be heroes, take on challenges, and meet Marvel characters—pretty awesome for any young superhero fan.
Star Wars: Millennium Falcon (Disney Dream)
On the Disney Dream, kids can hop into the Millennium Falcon and go on a mission in this cool interactive play area. Perfect for little Star Wars fans who want to be part of the action.
Climbing Wall (Disney Magic and Disney Wonder)
Test your climbing skills on the climbing wall. It’s a fun challenge with a great view of the ocean, available on the Disney Magic and Wonder.
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (Select Ships)
For a magical makeover, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is where kids can be transformed into princesses, knights, or pirates. Not your usual adventure, but definitely a memorable experience!
Funnel Puddle and Mickey’s Pool (All Ships)
For the younger kids, Mickey’s Pool and the Funnel Puddle are great spots to splash around. These areas have shallow pools, small slides, and water play zones designed just for little ones.
Restaurants & Dining Venues on a Disney Cruise
Eating on a Disney Cruise is a big part of the fun, and there are loads of cool places to try – all included in your fare:
Animator’s Palate
Animator’s Palate is where your dinner gets a dose of Disney magic. The whole place comes to life with animation, and you might even get to see your own drawing on the screens!
Enchanted Garden
Inspired by Versailles, Enchanted Garden changes from day to night while you eat. The food is a mix of fresh and tasty dishes from all over the world.
Royal Court/Royal Palace
Dine like a princess (or prince) at Royal Court or Royal Palace. These elegant spots are all about Disney princesses and serve up French and continental dishes.
Rapunzel’s Royal Table (Disney Magic)
On the Disney Magic, you’ll find Rapunzel’s Royal Table, where you can enjoy dinner with live performances by Rapunzel and her friends. It’s dinner and a show all in one!
Tiana’s Place (Disney Wonder)
Tiana’s Place on the Disney Wonder brings the flavours of New Orleans to your plate. Enjoy Southern cooking with live jazz music inspired by The Princess and the Frog.
Cabanas
For a laid-back meal, head to Cabanas. This buffet spot is great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, offering a huge variety of options, from seafood to international favourites.
Lumiere’s (Disney Magic) / Triton’s (Disney Wonder)
Lumiere’s on the Disney Magic and Triton’s on the Disney Wonder offer a more upscale dining experience. Themed after Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid, they serve American and French-inspired dishes.
Room Service
Feel like staying in? Room service is available 24/7 and is included in your fare. You can order anything from snacks to full meals, right to your cabin.
Speciality Dining (Not Included in Fare)
If you’re looking to splurge a little, Disney Cruises offer some amazing speciality dining options. These spots aren’t included in your fare, but they’re worth it for a special night out:
Palo
Palo is an adults-only restaurant that serves up incredible Italian cuisine. It’s got a classy vibe, perfect for date night or a quiet meal away from the kids. The brunch here is also a big hit, offering a mix of sweet and savoury dishes with a side of ocean views.
- Cost: Around $45 per person, plus optional wine pairings for an additional fee.
Remy
For a truly upscale experience, Remy on the Disney Dream and Fantasy is the place to go. Inspired by the film Ratatouille, this French restaurant offers a fine dining experience with gourmet dishes and a tasting menu.
- Cost: Around $125 per person for dinner, with extra for wine pairings or champagne.
Enchanté (Disney Wish)
On the Disney Wish, Enchanté offers an elegant, French-inspired dining experience, with menus crafted by a Michelin-starred chef. This is the ultimate in luxury dining on board.
- The Passion Menu at Enchanté costs $125 per person, offering a six-course dining experience.
- There’s also a more elaborate Collection Menu priced at $195 per person, which includes multiple courses that feature both new creations and Enchanté’s signature dishes.
- Additionally, guests can opt for à la carte options if they prefer to order individual dishes, which range in price from about $25 to $85
Steakhouse 71 (Disney Treasure)
Disney Treasure, Steakhouse 71 is set to be a top pick for meat lovers. Expect top-quality steaks and a variety of sides in a modern setting.
- Cost: Pricing details to be confirmed, but it will likely be similar to Palo or Remy.
Dessert Tastings and Wine Experiences
Disney also offers special dessert tastings and wine experiences at an additional cost. These events are perfect for those who want to try something new or indulge in a little extra luxury.
- Cost: Prices vary depending on the experience, usually ranging from $30 to $100 per person.
Drink Packages and Costs
When you’re on a Disney Cruise, many drinks are included, but there are also some extras you might want to consider. Here’s what to expect:
What’s Included
- Soda, Coffee, Tea, and Water: You can get these at no extra charge in the dining rooms and at self-service stations around the ship.
- Room Service: Basic coffee and tea are included if you order through room service.
Alcoholic Drinks (Not Included)
Alcoholic beverages like beer, wine, and cocktails aren’t included in your cruise fare. Here’s how you can manage those costs:
Wine Packages
You can buy wine packages at the start of your cruise, which gets you a selection of wines to enjoy with your meals. There are usually two options:
- Classic Wine Package: Includes a selection of popular wines.
- Premium Wine Package: Offers more upscale wine choices.
Costs: These packages start around £70 for three bottles, with higher-end packages going up to £315.
Beer Mug Package
If you love beer, grab a Beer Mug Package. You get a souvenir mug and discounted refills throughout your trip.
Cost: The mug costs around £12, with refills at a lower price.
Cocktail and Mixed Drinks
There isn’t a specific package for cocktails, but Disney has a “Drink of the Day” special where you can try a different cocktail each day at a discount.
Cost: Most cocktails range from £6.50 to £10, with the “Drink of the Day” being cheaper.
Coffee Packages
For speciality coffee, you can buy a coffee card that gives you a set number of drinks from onboard cafes.
Cost: Typically around £28 for a card with multiple drinks.
Bottled Water Packages
If you prefer bottled water, you can buy it in packs.
Cost: Starts at about £7 for a six-pack.
Cabin Types on a Disney Cruise
There’s a cabin for everyone on a Disney Cruise, whether you’re on a budget, need space for the family, or want to splurge on something luxurious. Here’s the rundown:
Inside Cabins
Inside Cabins are the most affordable option. They don’t have a window, but some ships feature a Magical Porthole that gives you a live view of the outside with some fun Disney animations.
- Best for: Travellers on a budget who still want some Disney magic.
- Price Range: Starting around £1,200 per person for a 7-night cruise.
Oceanview Cabins
Oceanview Cabins have a window or porthole, so you can enjoy some natural light and a view of the sea.
- Best for: Those who want a sea view without the cost of a balcony.
- Price Range: Starting around £1,400 per person for a 7-night cruise.
Verandah Cabins
Verandah Cabins offer a private balcony, perfect for sipping your morning coffee or enjoying the sunset in peace.
- Best for: Anyone who likes having their own outdoor space.
- Price Range: Usually starts around £1,800 per person for a 7-night cruise.
Concierge Cabins
Concierge Cabins are the top-tier option, offering more space, luxury amenities, and access to exclusive areas on the ship, like the Concierge Lounge. You also get priority boarding and personalised service.
- Best for: Guests looking for a VIP experience.
- Price Range: Typically starts around £3,500 per person for a 7-night cruise.
Family Cabins
Family Cabins are designed to fit up to five people, with extra beds and more room to spread out. They’re available in both Oceanview and Verandah options.
- Best for: Families who need more space.
- Price Range: Expect to pay a bit more than standard cabins—around £2,000 per person for a 7-night cruise.
Accessible Cabins
Disney also has Accessible Cabins for guests with mobility needs. These cabins are bigger and include features like roll-in showers and wider doorways.
- Best for: Guests needing accessible accommodations.
- Price Range: Generally similar to other cabins of the same type, depending on location and amenities.
Disney Cruise Line Wedding
Disney Cruise Line has some great wedding packages for your big day. All packages come with optional upgrades like photography, character appearances, and more magical details to make your day even more amazing!
Disney Cruise Weddings at Sea
Get married onboard one of Disney’s ships, with stunning locations like the Atrium or on deck. You’ll get an officiant, bouquet and boutonniere, musician, tiered cake with champagne, a Disney keepsake, and a wedding coordinator to handle everything.
Castaway Cay Wedding
Tie the knot on Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, with a beautiful beach setting. Includes a tropical ceremony setup, bouquet and boutonniere, musician, cake with champagne, a keepsake, and a coordinator.
Vow Renewals
Renew your vows either onboard or on Castaway Cay with all the same perks—officiant, bouquet and boutonniere, musician, cake with champagne, a keepsake, and a coordinator to keep things smooth.
For all the finer details of getting married on a cruise ship, check out our excellent Cruise Wedding Guide. It covers everything you need to know to plan the perfect ceremony at sea.
Guest Services on a Disney Cruise
Disney Cruises are all about making sure you have a stress-free and enjoyable trip. Here’s a quick look at the services available to help with that:
Customer Service (Before and During Your Cruise)
Disney’s customer service is top-notch. Before you even step on the ship, you can get help with booking, excursions, or special requests. Once onboard, there’s a Guest Services Desk where you can sort out any issues, ask questions, or make extra arrangements.
Accessibility Services
Disney Cruises are built to be accessible for everyone. They have accessible cabins, as well as elevators, ramps, and accessible seating in theatres and dining areas. If you have specific needs, just let them know before your cruise or head to Guest Services once you’re onboard.
Health and Safety
Disney takes health and safety seriously. Each ship has a fully equipped medical centre with doctors and nurses available around the clock. The ships are cleaned regularly, and Disney follows strict health guidelines. You can also check out their latest health protocols, like testing or vaccination requirements, before you set sail.
🛳️ Cruise Tip: Personalised Autographs
Leave items like pillowcases or photo mats at Guest Services with markers for character signatures, and they’ll be returned to you fully signed at the end of your cruise.
Swimming Pools and Water Slides on a Disney Cruise
Disney Cruises have some awesome pools and water slides that everyone can enjoy. Here’s what you’ll find onboard:
Mickey’s Pool (All Ships)
Mickey’s Pool is a shallow pool designed for younger kids, featuring a fun slide that looks like Mickey’s arm. It’s perfect for little ones to splash around safely.
Goofy’s Pool (Disney Magic and Disney Wonder)
Goofy’s Pool is a family-friendly spot where everyone can swim and relax. It’s located midship with a big screen showing Disney movies while you swim—ideal for a chill day.
Donald’s Pool (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy)
On the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, Donald’s Pool is the main pool area. It’s bigger, with lots of space for lounging and a huge screen (Funnel Vision) playing Disney films, making it a hit with families.
Quiet Cove Pool (All Ships)
Quiet Cove Pool is your go-to if you’re looking for an adults-only spot. It’s a peaceful area with comfy loungers and a poolside bar, perfect for relaxing away from the hustle and bustle.
AquaDuck (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy)
The AquaDuck is a super fun water coaster that takes you on a ride through a clear tube around the ship, even going out over the ocean! It’s great for both kids and adults who love a bit of excitement.
AquaDunk (Disney Magic)
For thrill-seekers, the AquaDunk is a must. This slide starts with the floor dropping out beneath you, sending you into a near-vertical plunge. It’s quick, intense, and sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Funnel Puddle (Disney Magic and Disney Wonder)
Funnel Puddle is a splash zone designed for toddlers and younger kids. It’s shallow and safe, with plenty of room for little ones to have a good time in the water.
No-Fly UK Ports for Disney Cruises
If you’d rather skip the airport, Disney offers cruises that depart directly from the UK. Here are the main ports where you can start your Disney adventure:
Dover
Dover is one of the main UK ports for Disney Cruises, especially for trips to Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. It’s easy to get to from London by train, so you can just hop on the train and be at the port in a couple of hours.
Southampton
Southampton is another big departure point for Disney, with cruises heading to the British Isles, the Norwegian fjords, and even the Mediterranean. It’s well-connected by road and rail, so getting there is pretty straightforward.
Liverpool
While Liverpool isn’t a regular stop for Disney, it’s occasionally used for special cruises.
Destinations You Can Visit on a Disney Cruise from the UK
Disney Cruises from the UK offer some pretty cool destinations. Here’s where you can go:
Norwegian Fjords
You can set sail from Southampton or Dover and head to the Norwegian fjords. Expect stunning views with lots of cliffs, waterfalls, and cute villages like Geiranger and Bergen.
Northern Europe
For those looking to explore Northern Europe, Disney Cruises take you to places like Denmark, Sweden, and Finland. You might get to visit cities like Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Helsinki, and sometimes even St. Petersburg in Russia.
Mediterranean
Cruises from Southampton can take you down to the Mediterranean. Think sunny spots like Barcelona, Rome, and Marseille, where you can soak up the culture, history, and beaches.
British Isles
If you want to stay a bit closer to home, Disney offers cruises around the British Isles. These often stop in places like Dublin, Edinburgh, and the Orkney Islands—perfect for a mix of history and gorgeous scenery.
Western Europe
For a shorter trip, there are cruises from Dover that explore Western Europe. You might stop in cities like Amsterdam, Bruges, and even Paris (via Le Havre).
Baltic Sea
If you’re up for a bit more adventure, cruises from Dover also head to the Baltic Sea. These trips usually include stops in places like Tallinn, St. Petersburg, and Helsinki, where you can dive into the local culture and history.
Disney Cruise Reviews
“Magical Cruise, but Be Ready for Lines”
“We had an amazing time on our Disney Cruise! The kids absolutely loved meeting the characters, and the shows were Broadway-quality—seriously impressive. The only downside was that some of the popular activities, like character meet-and-greets, had long lines, which meant we had to plan our day around them. But overall, it was a magical experience that we’ll never forget.”
—Kate H., Manchester
“Perfect Kids Cruise”
“Disney Cruise was the perfect family vacation for us. The kids were happy with the kids’ clubs and pools, and we got to relax at the adult-only areas. The only thing that could’ve been better was the Wi-Fi; it was quite expensive and not very fast.”
—Alan R., London
“Great Food”
“Our Disney Cruise to the Mediterranean was fantastic. The service was excellent, and the dining was incredible—especially at Palo. However, we found that some of the excursions were a bit overpriced compared to what we could find onshore. However, we had an unforgettable time and can’t wait to sail with Disney again.”
—Karin P., Birmingham
🛳️ Cruise Tip: Fish Extender Gift Exchange
Get involved in this onboard gift swap with other families—it’s a fun way to add some magic to your cruise.
Disney's Environmental programs
Disney Cruise Line takes its environmental impact seriously and has several programs in place to help protect the planet. Here’s a breakdown:
Fuel Efficiency and Emissions
Disney’s ships use tech that helps them save fuel and reduce emissions. They’ve added things like special hull coatings and energy-efficient lighting to cut down on energy use. They also use scrubber systems to reduce the amount of sulphur oxides released into the air.
Waste Management and Recycling
Disney is big on recycling. Onboard, they separate and recycle materials like aluminium, plastic, paper, and glass. The ships are also equipped with advanced systems that treat wastewater, making sure it’s clean before it’s released back into the ocean.
Water Conservation
Disney’s ships have systems that turn seawater into drinking water, which helps save freshwater supplies. They also use low-flow showerheads and faucets to reduce water consumption.
Sustainable Sourcing
When it comes to food, Disney is committed to buying from sustainable sources, especially seafood. They aim to make sure the food they serve is environmentally friendly.
Castaway Cay Initiatives
On their private island, Castaway Cay, Disney has a solar power plant to help reduce the use of fossil fuels. They also work to protect the local marine environment and wildlife on the island.
Conservation and Wildlife Protection
Disney partners with conservation groups to help protect marine life and their habitats. They’re also involved in projects through the Disney Conservation Fund, which supports global wildlife protection efforts.
Education and Outreach
Onboard, Disney offers programs to educate guests about environmental conservation. These programs are designed to teach everyone—from kids to adults—about the importance of taking care of the planet.
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